Ellen L. Walker.

What’s an Ordinary Day?

For many intentionally childfree adults, the concept of an “ordinary day” is refreshingly unconventional. Without the structure of parenting schedules, they have the opportunity to tailor their own rhythms and preferences and to find fulfillment in routines that may seem atypical to others.

Ellen L. Walker’s Complete Without Kids explores these unique lifestyles. The book offers insights into how childfree adults make the most of their time and freedom.

For example, Arno, a retired respiratory therapist featured in Walker’s book, epitomizes the idea of a life without ordinary days. Having worked night shifts for much of his career, Arno’s routine remains unconventional even in retirement. He goes to bed at 4 a.m. and wakes in the early afternoon, savoring the flexibility that comes with being childfree.

Similarly, FBI agent Nicole leverages her childfree status to take on demanding work hours, including weekends. For Nicole, a Tuesday might look no different from a Saturday as she immerses herself in her career. This freedom to shape one’s schedule around personal and professional priorities is a recurring theme among childfree adults.

For Tracy, a web designer who works from home, an ordinary day involves focused work sessions followed by outdoor activities. She starts her mornings with breakfast and dives into work, often working six or seven hours straight without a break. When the weather cooperates, she enjoys gardening or cycling, balancing productivity with leisure.

Tracy also emphasizes the importance of connection despite her introverted nature. She actively participates in the lives of her friends’ children, attending basketball games or joining poolside chats. This involvement helps her maintain social ties and enrich her days, even as she values her quiet, solitary lifestyle.

Childfree adults often design their homes as havens of tranquility and personal expression. Tracy’s house, for example, is described as a “place where fun goes to die” for children—filled with fragile art, light-colored furniture, and dogs that aren’t fond of being grabbed. For her, and for many others like her, a childfree home represents a sanctuary, free from the chaos and noise that often accompany parenting.

Ellen Walker herself shares a similar sentiment. She describes the calm, adult-focused environment she and her husband have created. Their home reflects their personalities and priorities. It is a place that offers a peaceful retreat where they can recharge and enjoy each other’s company.

Moreover, the childfree lifestyle often allows individuals to focus on the smaller, quieter joys of life. Whether it’s cultivating a garden, pursuing a passion project, or simply enjoying a leisurely breakfast, these moments take on greater significance when not overshadowed by the demands of parenting.

At the same time, childfree adults like Tracy and Nicole demonstrate that fulfillment comes from engagement and purpose. For example, by dedicating time to their careers, friendships, and personal growth, they create lives rich with meaning and satisfaction.

For childfree adults, the absence of traditional routines opens the door to infinite possibilities. Their days may not be “ordinary” by societal standards, but they are uniquely theirs—a routine that is crafted with intention and filled with the freedom to pursue what truly matters.

In light of this, Ellen L. Walker’s Complete Without Kids: 2nd Edition: An Insider’s Guide to Childfree Living by Choice or by Chance celebrates this diversity of experiences. With many real-life stories, practical insight, and personal experiences, this book reminds us that an extraordinary life is often one lived on your own terms.

For those seeking inspiration or validation, the stories within her book provide a powerful affirmation of the joys of a childfree life—whether by choice or by chance.

For more information and insight, read Complete Without Kids, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CW39249G.

If you want to schedule a conversation with Dr. Ellen Walker, Ph.D., please visit her website: https://www.ellenlwalker.com/.

For childfree resources, please visit https://completewithoutkids.com/.

Leave a Comment